Bitcoin
Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency that enables peer-to-peer transactions over the internet without the need for a central authority or intermediary, such as a bank. It was proposed in 2008 by an individual or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto and was launched as open-source software in 2009. Bitcoin transactions are recorded on a public ledger called the blockchain, which ensures transparency and security through cryptographic techniques.Bitcoin operates on a technology called blockchain, which is a distributed ledger that maintains a secure and immutable record of all transactions. New bitcoins are created through a process called mining, wherein participants use computing power to solve complex mathematical problems, validating transactions and adding them to the blockchain.Bitcoin is known for its limited supply, capped at 21 million coins, which contributes to its scarcity. It has gained popularity as a form of investment, a store of value, and as a way to facilitate digital payments. The cryptocurrency is often associated with volatility in its price, influenced by market demand, regulatory news, and technological developments. As the first cryptocurrency, Bitcoin paved the way for the creation of thousands of alternative cryptocurrencies, collectively known as altcoins.